The markets have recaptured the 18k mark for the second time this morning. The Sensex had surpassed the level in early trades on the back of firm Asian markets, only to let go of important psychological mark immediately thereafter. The BSE benchmark index has again gone past the mark and is now quoting at 18006, higher by 77 points. Ditto for the Nifty, which started the day well above the 5400 mark and is now quoting at 5403, up 17 points. The broader markets are not to be left behind either; the midcap index is quoting at 7453, higher by 40 points and the smallcap index is at 9524, up 57 points.
Realty and metals are leading the way. DLF has strengthened by 2.2% at Rs 322, L&T has gained 1.2% at Rs 1916 and Sterlite has added 1.1% at Rs 165. Tata Steel, BHEL and M&M are the other significant gainers. And index heavyweight RIL has edged higher by 0.6% at Rs 1062.
On the other hand, RCom has weakened by 1.1% at Rs 189, Hindustan Unilever has shed 0.6% at Rs 262 and Cipla has lost 0.3% at Rs 328.
The market breadth is positive. Out of 2402 stocks traded on the BSE, there are 1596 advancing stocks as against 726 declines.